Statement from CEO Barbara Zdravecky on the situation at our Planned Parenthood health center in Sarasota

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At Planned Parenthood our top priority is the safety of our patients, staff, and community. This morning several members of our Sarasota Health Center staff felt ill while working, and emergency responders were called. The building was evacuated and an investigation took place.

Law enforcement has determined that fumes from cleaning solution located in a janitorial closet entered a nearby workspace, causing some staff to feel ill. A substance was also observed on the outdoor stairs and has since been identified as baby formula. Seven staff members were transported to a local hospital to monitor their health and should be released shortly. No patients were on site.

We are thankful to local law enforcement and emergency responders for quickly managing the situation and ensuring the safety of our staff. Our Sarasota Health Center will remain closed today and we will resume regular business hours beginning tomorrow. Patients are being asked to reschedule their appointments, and should call 407-246-1788 for more information.

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Planned Parenthood of Southwest and Central Florida, an affiliate of Planned Parenthood Federation of America, began operations in 1966 and provides vital sexual and reproductive health services and comprehensive sexuality education to women, men and teens in Ft. Myers, Immokalee, Kissimmee, Lakeland, Manatee, Naples, Orlando, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, and Tampa. The mission of Planned Parenthood is to ensure the right of all individuals to manage their sexual and reproductive health by providing medical services, education and advocacy. Go to www.myplannedparenthood.org for information or call (941) 365.3913.